World’s highest Shiva temple Tungnath tilting by 6 to 1 0 degree, reveals ASI report
A study conducted by the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) has found that the Tungnath Temple, which is located at an altitude of over 12000 feet in the Rudraprayag district of the Garhwal Himalaya, is tilting by about five to six degrees. Apart from this, small structures in the complex are inclined up to 10 degrees. ASI officials have said that they have informed the central government about the findings and have suggested that the temple be included as a protected monument.
According to The Times of India, an official said on Tuesday, ‘After this the government has started the process of declaring it as a monument of national importance and has issued a notification seeking objections from the public under it.’ Will find out the root cause so that it can be repaired immediately.
As per TOI report, Manoj Kumar Saxena, superintending archaeologist of ASI’s Dehradun circle, said, ‘First of all, we will find out the root cause of the damage. If it can be repaired immediately, we will. Apart from this, a detailed work program will be prepared after a thorough inspection of the temple. ASI officials have also not ruled out the possibility of subsidence, due to which the alignment of the temple may change.’
He said that if needed, the damaged part would be replaced in consultation with the experts. For now, the agency has installed glass scales on the walls of the main temple to measure activity. Located at an altitude of over 12000 feet, Tungnath is considered to be the highest Shiva temple in the world, which was built by the Katyuri rulers in the 8th century. It is under the administration of Badri-Kedar Temple Committee (BKTC).
